§ 5. Sir John Mellorasked the Minister of Labour what strikes and lockouts in breach of orders made under Defence Regulations have come to his notice during the past 12 months; against which of these he has instituted proceedings in the courts; and when he proposes to revoke the relevant Orders.
§ Mr. IsaacsThe number of stoppages of work arising from industrial disputes reported as beginning in the 12 months ended August, 1950, was 1,334; the great majority of these were stoppages of brief duration, involving only small numbers of men. The question whether these stoppages were in contravention of the Conditions of Employment and National Arbitration Order, could only be authoritatively determined in the courts, and I have not thought it appropriate to institute proceedings in the courts in respect of any of these stoppages. I have 1692 no present intention of revoking the Conditions of Employment and National Arbitration Order, which continues, in my opinion, to serve a useful purpose.
§ Sir J. MellorIs not the Minister bringing the law into contempt by maintaining in existence orders which are never enforced? Would it not be very much better to revoke those orders and ask again for powers should he need them?
§ Mr. IsaacsThis particular order, which brings into operation the National Arbitration Tribunal, is, in my opinion and in the opinion of the vast majority of workers and employers, continuing to serve a very useful purpose.
§ Sir J. MellorIt does not matter what useful purpose it may serve if it is never used.